Dan and I have not been this sick in years. A respiratory virus has had us down for several weeks. Asking for help during these debilitating times has felt humiliating. We are generally too proud to ask, “Would you take our garbage can to the street?” or “Can you bring us some Gatorade?” Yet the Lord can use those needy moments to engage us with others in ways that our pride may not allow us to see.
A few years ago, we had a missionary from Guatemala staying in our cottage. She came into the house one morning for coffee and a visit just as I was setting up the ironing board. I was shocked when she chirped, “Can I iron your clothes? I love to iron.” Really? Who loves to iron?
Somewhat horrified, I heard the Holy Spirit whisper, “Let her iron.” She attacked my cottons and linens with a vigor and an expertise which astounded me. As she ironed, she began to talk. Stories of abuse and abandonment poured out, mingled with scalding tears. Shame kept her focus on the shirts and skirts rather than having to look me in the eyes.
Finally, she whispered, “Would you call that sexual abuse? I always thought it was just the way things were in life. That is what he said.” The door was open to inviting this dear woman, a missionary, into the Lord’s truth and healing for her pain—all because I let her iron my clothes.
When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. Proverbs 11:2.
Blessings this day.
Annette
Looking with New Eyes 